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Mon, 22 Jun 2015 18:23:29 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.2.3How Ice and Snow Affect Park City Solar Panelshttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/ice-snow-affect-park-city-solar-panels/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/ice-snow-affect-park-city-solar-panels/#commentsWed, 24 Dec 2014 08:23:16 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1678Generating electricity by using the power of the sun is becoming a popular method of supplying energy for homes. However, using Park City Solar Panels in cold climates poses particular problems. The accumulation of snow and ice in winter can cover the photovoltaic cells that collect light from the sun. This cover of snow and […]

]]>Generating electricity by using the power of the sun is becoming a popular method of supplying energy for homes. However, using Park City Solar Panels in cold climates poses particular problems. The accumulation of snow and ice in winter can cover the photovoltaic cells that collect light from the sun. This cover of snow and ice can affect the performance of the panels.

rooftop panels

Light Dusting
When snow accumulation is less than two inches, it is not likely to have a significant effect on the ability of the photovoltaic cells to collect sunlight. This small amount of snow generally melts as soon as the sun returns, and no action is necessary. However, large amounts of snow may require removal in order for the panels to function properly.

Significant Accumulations
Heavy snowfall can affect Park City Solar Panels performance significantly, and homeowners will have to determine the best way to remove the accumulation to some extent in order to start the melting process. The simplest method involves purchasing a specially designed snow rake that can be used to pull off some of the snow so that the cells can function as designed.

Reflective Power
Another effect must be taken into account regarding snowfall and Park City Solar Panels, is reflection. A St. Lawrence College and Queen’s University study reports that snowfall around the Park City Solar Panels increased the albedo effect. Albedo is the reflective power of a surface. The snow on the ground and surrounding the panels reflects more light and increases the ability of the panels to collect light for power.

Angle of Installation
Park City Solar Panels that are installed at an angle will aid in melting the snow. The accumulation of snow will slide off the panel more easily, reducing blockage to the cells.

Solar Angle
The angle of the Park City Solar Panels can also have a bearing on the problem of snowfall and panel function. Panels can adjust to the angle of the sun can help to melt snow accumulation and also increase the ability of the panels to collect light.

Type of Panels
The type of solar panel will also have a bearing on how much snow and ice accumulation affects function. For example, thin-film panels can produce electricity from diffuse light and can benefit more from the albedo effect reflected off snow on the ground. Crystalline panels require direct light, so snow removal can be more critical for this type of panel.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/ice-snow-affect-park-city-solar-panels/feed/0Debunking The Park City Solar Panels Winter Mythhttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/debunking-park-city-solar-panels-winter-myth/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/debunking-park-city-solar-panels-winter-myth/#commentsWed, 10 Dec 2014 08:15:11 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1674Solar power is growing in popularity as more consumers look for environmentally-friendly methods for providing energy for their home and to save money on their energy bills. Residential solar power is much more efficient and affordable than it was years ago, but many myths still linger about the energy source. Park City Solar Panels Only […]

]]>Solar power is growing in popularity as more consumers look for environmentally-friendly methods for providing energy for their home and to save money on their energy bills. Residential solar power is much more efficient and affordable than it was years ago, but many myths still linger about the energy source.

Bowler System

Park City Solar Panels Only Work When It Is Hot

Heat is actually an enemy of Park City Solar Panels while cooler weather is friendlier. Park City Solar Panels become more efficient in turning the sun into electricity. A sunny winter day produces more energy on average per hour than a hot summer day. In fact, Germany, who has a very low number of bright sunny days, has more solar energy powered buildings than any other country.

Park City Solar Panels Can’t Withstand Snow and Sleet

Park City Solar Panels will operate with a thin coat of ice or snow, but if snow blocks the panels completely, they will not be able to generate power. If snow melts quickly, the panels shouldn’t be affected greatly and some panels, such as those that are dark, will aid in the melting of snow. Ice and snow will slide off the panels naturally as it melts. Panels can also be angled more steeply in harsh climates to encourage the snow and ice to slide easier. If the panels are covered with a significant amount of snow, it can be brushed off with a broom or special product that resembles a windshield wiper. For ground mounted units, snow actually reflects and can increase the energy generated by the solar panel.

These myths often stop consumers from seeking information on adding Park City Solar Panels to their home. Park City Solar Panels can reduce energy costs significantly and help people provide energy to their home or business in an environmentally-friendly way. The fact is that the myths are just that – myths – and Park City Solar Panels actually work just as efficiently in the winter than they do in the hot days of summer.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/12/debunking-park-city-solar-panels-winter-myth/feed/0The Benefits Of Solar Power For Businesshttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/benefits-solar-power-business/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/benefits-solar-power-business/#commentsTue, 25 Nov 2014 00:46:04 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1488The cost of running a business in the prevailing economic environment can be very high. For this reason, many businesses are looking for ways to save on costs without hurting productivity. One way to cut costs is to use solar energy. This is a renewable energy source that you can use in various business applications. […]

]]>The cost of running a business in the prevailing economic environment can be very high. For this reason, many businesses are looking for ways to save on costs without hurting productivity. One way to cut costs is to use solar energy. This is a renewable energy source that you can use in various business applications. Solar comes with several benefits that can take your business to another level.
Eliminate the Monthly Energy Bill

Costs involved in installing a solar system include equipment purchase and payment of an installation fee. After this, you don’t have to pay any monthly charges. Solar power also protects your business against increasing utility rates. You can use these savings in another business project.

Solar Power Helps You Go Green, Which Renews Your Branding

Utilizing electricity from solar power results in less consumption of fossil fuels. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, which are some of the major causes of global warming. This means you add your name to the list of companies trying to protect the environment. Therefore, using solar power not only reduces your operational expenses, but also serves as a great marketing tool for your business. Going green gives you an environmentally responsible image that attracts more consumers to your door.

Solar Power Gives You a Reliable Energy Source

No person, company, or government can lay rights on the sun. This is a free resource that is available on daily basis. Even on a cloudy day, the rays of the sun will still produce enough electricity for your business operations. This means you aren’t subject to power grid outages. This is vital when it comes to your servers and data management.

Final Thoughts

Before you rule out solar power as an alternative source of energy, remember the benefits it offers. So, if you are looking to save money, go green, rebrand, or avoid power outages, solar power might be just the solution you are looking for.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/benefits-solar-power-business/feed/0Why DIY Isn’t The Way To Go With Solar Powerhttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/diy-isnt-way-go-solar-power/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/diy-isnt-way-go-solar-power/#commentsTue, 11 Nov 2014 00:45:02 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1486If you’re looking at solar power for your home, we’re here to convince you why you should NOT buy into the do it yourself fad. We’re going to get right down to the nitty-gritty and tell you right now: you will not save money with DIY. Unless you’re an experienced solar power installer, hiring an […]

]]>If you’re looking at solar power for your home, we’re here to convince you why you should NOT buy into the do it yourself fad. We’re going to get right down to the nitty-gritty and tell you right now: you will not save money with DIY. Unless you’re an experienced solar power installer, hiring an experienced professional is not only going to give you guaranteed quality and personal safety, but will give you significant savings on your solar power system.

Doing it yourself will end up costing you both the materials, tools, and licensing for the installation, and the time you spend doing it. Unlike other home improvement projects; not only is it going to cost you more, but there’s no guarantee that you will end up with a proper installation. Hiring an experienced professional who is licensed, trained, and efficient is the only option if you care about the safety of your home and the quality of your solar installation.

We understand the DIY appeal of building a solar system for your home; but the truth is it’s dangerous for anyone other than an untrained professional, to install a solar power system. There have been many accidents with DIY solar panel installations in recent years. There are many high-risk, specialized tasks associated with installing a solar power system. A mistake with electrical wiring could cause electrocution and injury, or start a fire.

When you hire an experienced solar power installation company, you don’t have to worry about applying for the permits and meeting regulations. You’re ensured panels that properly fit the roof of your home. Not only that, but solar power installations will always help you find and apply for incentives and rebates. This means you could potentially be handed cash for investing in your new solar power system.

If you’re serious about installing a solar power system on your home, leave it to the professionals. Make the right decision today and get started with a free evaluation here.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/11/diy-isnt-way-go-solar-power/feed/0Who’s Leading in the Solar Game?http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/whos-leading-solar-game/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/whos-leading-solar-game/#commentsSat, 01 Nov 2014 05:20:38 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1464As the price of oil continues to take a large chunk of household budgets and the number of military conflicts threatens the supply, the advantages of solar energy become more apparent to a wider marketplace. Solar energy continues to gain footing in many developed countries around the world. The solar panel manufacturing industry continues to […]

]]>As the price of oil continues to take a large chunk of household budgets and the number of military conflicts threatens the supply, the advantages of solar energy become more apparent to a wider marketplace. Solar energy continues to gain footing in many developed countries around the world. The solar panel manufacturing industry continues to be a growing part of the economy, both in the U. S. and around the world.

Who Leads in Solar Power Use?
The number of countries investing in solar power is growing steadily. Germany continues to be the largest user of solar power for the world, with 32,411 photovoltaic panels in use in 2013. Italy and China follow behind Germany, with the United States coming in fourth. However, installation and use of solar panels does not translate into manufacture of these products. Currently, it is China that leads in the manufacture and export of photovoltaic panels to the rest of the world.

Top Solar Panel Manufacturers
In 2013, according to research firm IHS, seven of the top 10 solar panel manufacturers were in China, two were in Japan and one was in the United States. The imbalance between the amount of solar energy systems being installed in the United States, and the amount of panels produced, leads to a number of different problems for American companies who do the installations. They often have to wait for parts coming from China, which significantly cuts into capital. The quality of these panels is often below American and European standards, which causes problems in installation and maintenance. As the American market grows for solar power in new construction and in retrofitting older homes, it becomes clear that the U.S. will have to step up its domestic production of solar panels.

U.S. Recommits To Solar Panel Production
To manage some of these supply problems, a number of U.S. companies are planning to increase domestic production of the solar panels. Existing companies are increasing output, while other companies are going into production in a number of new locations, in Michigan, California and New York State. As more homeowners look to reaping the benefits of lower energy prices in coming years, companies like Dwelltek can expect to expand their operations to handle the increased business.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/whos-leading-solar-game/feed/0How Solar Cells Workhttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/solar-cells-work/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/solar-cells-work/#commentsSat, 11 Oct 2014 05:12:14 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1462In recent years, small devices, such as the calculator and the kitchen timer that previously ran on batteries, have been transformed. Instead of relying on external power sources, they can now function on natural energy from the sun. As long as enough light is present, these devices can potentially work forever. Larger solar panels, more […]

]]>In recent years, small devices, such as the calculator and the kitchen timer that previously ran on batteries, have been transformed. Instead of relying on external power sources, they can now function on natural energy from the sun. As long as enough light is present, these devices can potentially work forever. Larger solar panels, more frequently seen on the roofs of houses and buildings, work in a similar fashion but on a larger scale. A solar cell is an electrical device that converts the energy of light, most notably from the sun, directly into electricity. These cells are the building blocks of solar panels, and they function by utilizing the photoelectric effect: basically, they create an environment that permits electrons to move. Sunlight is composed of photons and, once the solar cells absorb that light, they transfer the energy to loose electrons floating around inside them.

Solar cells are filled with two types of silicon: the n-type, which holds extra electrons, and the p-type, which is lacking a few electrons. The p-type thus has gaps waiting to be filled. When both types of silicon are placed together in a solar cell, the n-type’s spare electrons are able to transfer over and fill the gaps in the p-type’s atomic structure. Through this process, the n-type silicon becomes positively charged while the p-type becomes negatively charged. This creates an electric field across the cell, enabling the silicon to act as a semi-conductor of electricity. The imbalanced field and the silicon atoms within it then guide the photons from the sunlight down an electric current. Essentially, the photons free electrons from their atoms, generating a flow of electricity to areas that can utilize the energy and send it to power sources.

Solar power thus offers promising prospects because on a sunny day, the sun’s rays give off enough energy to power all of our homes, offices, and other buildings for free, as long as we make the effort to collect it.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/10/solar-cells-work/feed/0Is Dye the Next Advancement in Solar Cells?http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/dye-next-advancement-solar-cells/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/dye-next-advancement-solar-cells/#commentsTue, 23 Sep 2014 08:44:44 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1460The field of solar energy is constantly evolving as new technologies emerge. The goal is always to gain higher output yields at lower costs. When the sun’s rays reach the earth, the raw photonic energy is constantly being diluted. Some of the energy bounces off the atmosphere or gets absorbed by the earth’s ionosphere. Solar […]

]]>The field of solar energy is constantly evolving as new technologies emerge. The goal is always to gain higher output yields at lower costs. When the sun’s rays reach the earth, the raw photonic energy is constantly being diluted. Some of the energy bounces off the atmosphere or gets absorbed by the earth’s ionosphere. Solar developers have to harness what’s left of that energy. It’s like trying to hold sand in the palm of your hand. That analogy isn’t just poetic as most solar cells are constructed from silicon, the same substance which makes up sand.

One way that scientists are achieving higher power yields is through dye-sensitized solar cells. It’s the latest advancement in solar energy. Silicon is expensive and scientists have been searching for ways to better imitate the way plants harness energy from the sun. Dye-sensitized solar cells, or DSSCs, enhance the power output of conventional cells by capturing more light and increasing the flow of electrons across the surface of the cell. Some scientists are using organic dyes taken from actual plants while others are creating inorganic dyes in the laboratory.

Most solar panels achieve between 11 and 15 percent energy conversion. New developments in dye-sensitized solar cells promise to push that power level into the mid-twenties. Scientists use a variety of dyes to achieve these levels. Just a few years ago, zinc was thought to be the dye of choice. That was later replaced by platinum-coated dyes. Platinum, however, is a rare and expensive element. Although the power conversion levels were rising, the costs were rising as well. Scientists at the American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund and the National Science Foundation began working with 3-D graphene instead. This was much cheaper than platinum yet achieved the same results.

Solar developers are racing to find the right combination. The science is constantly evolving. The technology is ever-changing. Dye-sensitized solar cells could be the future of solar power, mimicking the way plants absorb solar energy at the molecular level. This is still a great mystery for the science world but researchers are constantly pushing the boundary forward.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/dye-next-advancement-solar-cells/feed/0How Do You Measure Solar?http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/measure-solar/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/measure-solar/#commentsTue, 09 Sep 2014 08:38:43 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1458Solar energy comes from the Sun, the medium-sized star in the center of our planetary system. It fuels all the life processes on our planet. Essentially, all forms of natural power come from the sun. Plants soak up solar energy through photosynthesis and the Earth’s energy cycle begins. Capturing and manipulating solar power is a […]

]]>Solar energy comes from the Sun, the medium-sized star in the center of our planetary system. It fuels all the life processes on our planet. Essentially, all forms of natural power come from the sun. Plants soak up solar energy through photosynthesis and the Earth’s energy cycle begins. Capturing and manipulating solar power is a bit different, however. This form of energy directly harnesses the photons given off by the sun and converts that energy to a form of power or electricity that can be used by conventional means.

There are a few different types of solar power that we can measure. There is solar heating, which uses thermal energy from the sun to heat up water, liquids or even directly heat our food. We measure this form of solar power in terms of thermal energy. Commonly, this is measured in Btus (British thermal units). It takes about one BTu to heat one pint of water one degree.

Solar power is also measured as solar photochemical power, which utilizes a chemical reaction to create electrical energy. You might have seen experiments where people plug their phone charger into an orange and receive a small jolt of power. This happens due to a catalyst in the acid of the fruit. The most prominent form of solar power is called photovoltaic. This technology employs a relay of solar power cells, which captures and stores raw solar photons. Then, an inverter changes that energy into conventional AC (alternating current) so you can power your electronic devices or even power your entire home. This form of solar power is measured the same way we measure electricity, in watts. A thousand watts is equal to a kilowatt. The solar energy from photovoltaic panels is measured in kilowatt hours (kWh). This measurement is a thousand watts of electricity in any given hour.

Determining how much power we need is the main purpose of measuring solar energy. It’s a system of absolutes that helps technicians install the right solar power system. For a frame of reference consider that the average home uses 8900 kWh of electricity a year. Given this benchmark, we can determine how many solar panels are required to power a specific space.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/measure-solar/feed/0Utah Public Service Commission Denies Proposed Solar Feehttp://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/utah-public-service-commission-denies-proposed-solar-fee/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/utah-public-service-commission-denies-proposed-solar-fee/#commentsMon, 01 Sep 2014 07:23:48 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1456Dwelltek has successfully helped to rally supporters of solar power intent on defeating a recent attempt by Rocky Mountain Power to impose a tax on rooftop solar users. In late August, members of the Utah Public Service Commission listened to the more than 10,000 comments submitted to the PSC and voted to deny Rocky Mountain’s […]

]]>Dwelltek has successfully helped to rally supporters of solar power intent on defeating a recent attempt by Rocky Mountain Power to impose a tax on rooftop solar users. In late August, members of the Utah Public Service Commission listened to the more than 10,000 comments submitted to the PSC and voted to deny Rocky Mountain’s proposal to place a $4.65 monthly fee on residential rooftop solar customers.

The defeat of Rocky Mountain Power’s attempt to impose an unfair tax on homeowners who have invested in the cleanest form of energy production possible is a victory for all Utah residents for several reasons. Derailing this proposed fee makes it possible for residents of Utah to continue expanding solar power usage both residentially and commercially without burdening customers with new taxes. This will also result in more job opportunities associated with this natural energy alternative at such solar energy solution providers as Dwelltek. In addition, encouraging the usage of solar energy will result in cleaner air throughout Utah and promote a healthier population.

The recent defeat of Rocky Mountain’s attempt to impose unnecessary taxes on those who invest in solar energy solutions is also a clear indication that Utah families and businesses support environmentally friendly energy alternatives. They are more committed than ever to support the development of solar energy that is easily accessible for residential and commercial customers alike.

The founders of Dwelltek, the Park City, Utah-based company that has helped thousands of Utah homeowners live more comfortably and economically by transitioning to solar power, have always believed that any support of home energy efficiency is a smart financial investment. Its recent call for customers to let the Utah Public Service Commission know their strong opposition to imposing any tax on solar energy is also a reflection of the growing support among the public to foster the expansion of this cleanest of energy sources which emits no greenhouse gases, toxins or pollution of any kind.

]]>http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/09/utah-public-service-commission-denies-proposed-solar-fee/feed/0Can You Afford Park City Solar?http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/08/can-afford-park-city-solar/
http://www.dwelltek.com/2014/08/can-afford-park-city-solar/#commentsTue, 26 Aug 2014 03:54:40 +0000http://www.dwelltek.com/?p=1438Although Park City solar paneling has decreased in cost in recent years, going solar still requires a substantial initial investment from homeowners. Many question if it is worth the cost, even with government programs to help offset the expense and with the advantages of having a clean source of energy that isn’t reliant on the […]

]]>Although Park City solar paneling has decreased in cost in recent years, going solar still requires a substantial initial investment from homeowners. Many question if it is worth the cost, even with government programs to help offset the expense and with the advantages of having a clean source of energy that isn’t reliant on the power grid. Here are three important factors to help with this important decision.

Environmental Conditions

One common misconception that people have about Park city solar energy involves direct sunlight verses daylight. Contrary to popular belief, solar panels can draw energy from natural light, even in cloudy conditions. Direct sunlight is the most efficient, of course, but all daylight contributes to Park City solar power. Even if you experience spates of cloudy weather, solar can still be a good choice for helping to satisfy your home energy needs.

Tax Incentives and Programs

Federal and state tax credits are available to help make it easier to install Park City solar paneling. The federal government offers tax credit equivalent to 30% of the total cost of your solar system. Many states have a similar program that provides a credit toward state taxes. These vary, but Utah, for example, offers a credit of 25% of the system cost. That means that total tax credits cover more than half the overall cost of installation!

Return on Investment

Over the years, Park City solar systems generally provide a good return on investment, especially factoring in the tax incentives that help manage overall cost of installation. Solar panels are designed with durability and longevity in mind, with some systems lasting twenty-five years or longer. The system requires little maintenance. With the cost of traditional energy sources rising steadily, solar can make a huge month-to-month difference in terms of energy bills, including heating and cooling.

Can Park City solar energy be affordable? Yes, thanks to decreases in initial investment, tax incentives, and increasing energy costs, going solar can be a very affordable option for homeowners seeking clean energy and lower bills.